Lionel Messi, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), has chosen France as the favorite for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Four years ago Les Blues won Russia, beating Messi and Co. in the last-16. This year, the Argentine great feels that they can retain their crown.
Didier Deschamp's Euro 2020 team was stunned by Switzerland in the round 16 last year. They produced a remarkable comeback in regular play to draw 3-3, before eliminating them on penalties.
Messi believes that their disappointments have made them stronger. TyC Sports spoke to him:
"France is a formidable national team. We had already stated that it was a candidate at the time and they ended up being champions. The European Championship was a blow that made France stronger, more mature as a team and realized many other things. "I believe that the World Cup will be a World Cup in which a national team is a contender to be world champion."
He isn't completely wrong. France won the UEFA Nations League in November, bouncing back from their European Championship defeat.
Although not as well-known as the Euros but France's victory was a big statement of intent and they could be back for the World Cup.
France has a formidable squad, full of world-class talent. No one can bet against them reaching the finals again.
This is Messi's final chance to win the World Cup
Next month, Messi will turn 35. The upcoming World Cup will be his last chance to win the coveted trophy.
He helped Argentina win the Copa America title lastyear, ending their long-standing international drought.
He longs for the World Cup, but many believe he is unable to claim the title of 'GOAT'.
After reaching the finals in 2014, the former Barcelona ace was almost there. But Germany won in extra-time.
Argentina has the team that could reach the finals this year, and they have good form. Since a 2-0 loss to Brazil in the Copa America 2019, they have not lost in 31 matches.
It will be fascinating to see how they fare in Messi's World Cup swansong.
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